The formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are thought to contribute to the degradation of the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain and the subsequent symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Amyloids are structures of proteins that become folded into a shape that allows many copies of that protein to stick together forming fibrils. The previously healthy proteins lose their normal physiological functions and form fibrous deposits in plaques around cells that disrupt the healthy function of tissues and organs. Nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme extracted and purified from a Japanese food called nattō, made from fermented soybeans. Published in the...